How to Grow Variegated Lemon Thyme

Variegated lemon thyme (Thymus x citriodorus "Variegata") is a durable, lemon-scented herb that once planted, requires minimal maintenance. A sun-loving plant, variegated lemon thyme is attractive in a herb garden, a rock garden, bordering a walkway or flower bed, or in a container. At mature heights of 6 to 10 inches, the plant makes an effective, non-aggressive ground cover in small areas, and tolerates light foot traffic. Sturdier than most thyme varieties, lemon thyme grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 10.

1

Water the plant deeply approximately once every week to promote a healthy root system. Allow the soil to dry between waterings as soggy soil may cause the plant to rot. Variegated lemon thyme is a Mediterranean herb that thrives in dry soil.

2

Harvest sprigs and leaves throughout the summer, as trimming the plant encourages bushy new growth and an attractive, compact plant. Harvest lightly after late summer, as tender, new growth is susceptible to winter chill.

3

Fertilize the plant every spring, using a general-purpose, slow-release fertilizer. Water the plant the day before fertilizing, as adding fertilizer to dry soil may scorch the roots. Water deeply after fertilizing to distribute the fertilizer evenly around the root system. Rinse off fertilizer that lands on the foliage.

4

Pull weeds that grow between and around lemon thyme plants. Once the plant is established, it fills in bare areas and you won't need to weed much.

5

Trim the plant in spring, removing about one-third of the growth. Pruning is important for this plant because it promotes healthy air circulation and prevents rot. Remove only new growth and never cut into the bare, woody stems because new growth doesn't appear on bare wood.

Things You Will Need

Garden pruners or shears

General-purpose, slow-release fertilizer

Tip

Although variegated lemon thyme is suitable for planting in USDA zone 10, it is usually grown as an annual because extreme heat in midsummer often kills the plant.

About the Author

M.H. Dyer began her writing career as a staff writer at a community newspaper and is now a full-time commercial writer. She writes about a variety of topics, with a focus on sustainable, pesticide- and herbicide-free gardening. She is an Oregon State University Master Gardener and Master Naturalist and holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative nonfiction writing.